Male is similar to P. portia by (a) frons and vertex blue-black metallic with maturity, contrasting weakly with dark face; (b) sides of thorax dark, often with pale stripes; (c) basal black on wings solid, extends beyond node and often even distal to Pt. However, differs by (1) relatively larger size, Hw 21-27 mm; (2) mesepisterna matt black with maturity; (3) posterior border of black field at most slightly excavated in Hw. [Adapted from Dijkstra & Clausnitzer 2014]

Habitat description

Standing and often temporary waters in open landscapes or shaded by or in open areas in (gallery) forest. Usually with emergent vegetation and often coarse detritus and a soft (like muddy) bottom. From 0 to 2300 m above sea level, but mostly below 1600.

Balinsky, B.I. (1961). Observations on the dragonfly fauna of the coastal region of Zululand, with descriptions of three new species (Odonata). Journal Entomological Society Southern Africa, 24, 72-91. [PDF file]

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